To all who participated in the 3rd NJ Hustle Congress,

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From the bottom of my heart, I want to express my deepest gratitude for making our third event at the Marriott at Newark Liberty International Airport—alongside our sister event, The MAC (Amateur Competition Ballroom Event)—such a resounding success. Whether you competed, MC’d, DJ’d, taught or attended workshops, performed, volunteered, dined, or danced the night away, your presence was invaluable in creating an extraordinary experience.

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The energy, passion, and joy that filled the ballroom were truly inspiring. Watching dancers connect, challenge themselves, and celebrate their love for Hustle reminded me why we do what we do. Your support made every competition, workshop, performance, and social dance a success.

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I also want to extend a special thank you for your generosity during our annual fundraisers:

• The Circle of Love, which provides scholarships for the newest generation of Hustle dancers

• Hustle for the Hounds, supporting animals affected by the LA fires

Special Thanks to Our Incredible Team
This event wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated team. A heartfelt congratulations to Kim Vanaman, recipient of this year's Icon Award, for her tireless efforts and invaluable contributions!

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To our outstanding staff:

• Jodie Williams, our Registration Manager 

• Ron Bess, our fantastic MC

• Our talented instructors: Annie Lebedeva & Steven James, Danny McGee & Jameson Kilburn, Diane Nardone, Jaime Serna, Lori Ann & Kelvin Roche, Kim Vanaman, Louis Orlando & Beth Darchi, Marc Brewer & Rose Turuka, Mary Ann Rosa, Nino DiGiulio & Dawn Lara, Shay Dixon & Serena Cuevas

• Our incredible DJs: Cesar Cab, David Ho, Jamal "R Class" Rigualt, and Vinny T for keeping the beats flowing and the dancers inspired all night long. 

• Our dedicated volunteers: Bob Dabrowski, Dinah Rose, Doris & Willie Bodt, Hovie, Marla Conley, and "Mamarazzi" Merly Alexander for their extra help behind the scenes

• A special thank you to Elizabeth Darchi, our talented website designer and manager, for ensuring our online presence is as vibrant and engaging as our dance community.

 

Our competition staff:

• Paul Stoddard, our Scorer and Registration System creator & manager

• Dawn Garrish, our Head Judge

• Amy Diane, our Deck Captain, who ensured our competitions ran smoothly and on time

 

• Our talented photographer & videographer: Miguel Aviles

• Our security: Chris Bates

 

Honoring Our Supporters & Performers
A huge thank you to other professionals who supported and participated: Ashley Lumberg, Billy Marti, Christopher Crevatas, Faustine Lavie, Gustavo Rueda, Joe Kerner, Rainer Trubere, Robert Finocchio, Satomi Montague, and Taryn Rucinsky. We were also thrilled to have Nikki Medina, Tybaldt Ulrich, and Veronica Castilla in attendance.

 

And, of course, a standing ovation for our incredible performers in the Saturday Night Dinner & Show—it wouldn’t have been the same without each and every one of you cheering, laughing, and celebrating together!

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Until We Dance Again...
This event was a success because of YOU—our incredible dance community. Thank you for bringing your energy, enthusiasm, and love for dance to the NJ Hustle Congress. I can’t wait to see you all again on the dance floor soon!

 

With gratitude,

Lori Brizzi
Event Director & Producer
NJ Hustle Congress
NY Hustle Congress
NYC Dance Experience
Cruises, Boat Rides & Dance Parties